Cost of Buying a House in Mauritius (2024 Guide)

What is the total cost of buying a house in Mauritius?

The total cost of buying a house in Mauritius typically adds 7–12% on top of the agreed purchase price once you factor in registration duty, notary fees, and administrative charges. Foreign buyers purchasing under a government-approved scheme such as the Property Development Scheme (PDS) must also meet a minimum investment threshold of USD 375,000. Planning for these extras from day one prevents nasty surprises at the notary's office.

What are the main purchase taxes and duties?

Registration Duty

Registration duty is the single largest additional cost. For Mauritian citizens and residents buying a primary residence, the rate is 5% of the property value. A first-time buyer purchasing a home valued at up to MUR 7 million benefits from a reduced rate of 3% on the first MUR 7 million under the current incentive scheme. For all other residential purchases, the standard rate of 5% applies. Foreign nationals buying through a PDS, Smart City, or IRS scheme pay the same 5% rate on the declared value.

Land Transfer Tax

The seller normally bears Land Transfer Tax, but buyers should be aware it affects negotiation dynamics. It is levied at 5% of the sale price on the vendor's side, which can influence the final agreed figure.

VAT on New Builds

If you are purchasing a brand-new property from a developer, 15% VAT may be applicable on the construction component. Always confirm with the developer whether the advertised price is VAT-inclusive, as this can significantly change your budget on luxury villas in areas like Grand Baie, Tamarin, or Beau Champ.

How much are notary and legal fees?

In Mauritius, all property transactions must pass through a notary (notaire). Notary fees are regulated by law and are calculated on a sliding scale:

• 1.5% on the first MUR 500,000 of the purchase price
• 1.25% on the next MUR 500,000
• 1% on amounts above MUR 1 million

For a property priced at MUR 15 million (roughly USD 330,000), expect notary fees in the region of MUR 150,000–175,000. These fees cover the drafting of the deed of sale, title search, and registration at the Registrar-General's Department. Some buyers also appoint a separate property lawyer for due diligence, adding a further MUR 30,000–80,000 depending on complexity.

What about mortgage and bank costs?

If you are financing your purchase with a Mauritius bank, budget for additional costs:

• Mortgage registration fee: approximately 0.5% of the loan amount
• Valuation fee: MUR 5,000–15,000 depending on the property
• Bank arrangement fee: typically 1% of the loan value
• Life and property insurance: mandatory for most mortgages; premiums vary by age and property value

Mauritius banks currently offer home loan rates broadly between 5.5% and 7.5% per annum, and most will lend up to 80% of the property value for residents.

Are there extra costs for foreign buyers?

Foreign nationals cannot buy freehold land or standard residential property in Mauritius without going through an approved investment scheme. The main routes are:

• PDS (Property Development Scheme): minimum purchase of USD 375,000; grants Mauritian residency to the buyer and dependants
• Smart City Scheme: similar thresholds; properties located in mixed-use economic zones such as Moka or Beau Plan
• Ground+2 Apartments: foreigners may purchase apartments in buildings of at least three storeys above ground floor, with no minimum price threshold

Residency through property investment is automatic upon completing the purchase and is maintained as long as ownership is retained — making the USD 375,000 entry point attractive for those seeking long-term relocation to the island.

Quick cost summary for a MUR 15 million property

• Purchase price: MUR 15,000,000
• Registration duty (5%): MUR 750,000
• Notary fees (~1.1%): MUR 165,000
• Mortgage registration (0.5% of loan): MUR 60,000
• Valuation & legal: MUR 50,000
• Total additional costs: ~MUR 1,025,000 (~6.8%)

Get in touch with PropertyFinder Mauritius

Ready to start your property search with a clear budget in mind? Contact our team at PropertyFinder Mauritius to arrange a viewing or ask any questions about buying costs, financing, or residency requirements. You can also browse current houses for sale in Mauritius to find properties that match your budget today.